Review of The Vampires or, The Arch Criminals of Paris (1915) by Simon H — 06 Jun 2014

Rather than a 60-95 minutes feature, Les Vampires consists of 10 parts which total to 6 hours and 30 minutes. Fortunately not all 10 parts are required at one time. Each part consists of different stories which all fall under an overall arc regarding a criminal gang known as The Vampires. It's an interesting idea that fans of the silent film era would love. However, for those who prefer their features with a bit of dialogue may struggle to get through it.

The first part starts off fairly well. Through the use of movement and suitable dialogue slides, it is easy to understand the story from start to finish. Characters are distinguishable from one another and the environment sets the scene. Unfortunately, from what started off with an interesting lead eventually ended in an conclusion which was a bit of a let down. As you work through each part, you will notice many similarities between the sets, characters and the plot to the point that you struggle to keep interested. By the time you reach the end of the tenth part, you are just relieved that it has ended.

However, if I must praise Les Vampires for anything it would be the decision to tint the screen different colours. Rather than keep the screen a standard colour, it switches to reflect the time or the day and the mood. Whilst this is still confusing at times, it is a little idea that I thought was nice to see.

If shortened down from the epic running time, it might have more of a chance to impress. A 6 hour serial could have worked, it just doesn't have enough in it past the second part to impress me personally. However, I can't deny that it has been made well for the early years of cinema.